Breast reduction

Prior to the procedure, precise markings are made on the skin to indicate the new position of the nipple and areola, as well as the amount of breast and skin tissue that will be removed. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

There are several techniques for breast reduction. In our practice, we most often use the method developed by Canadian surgeon Elisabeth Hall-Findlay. With this technique, the nipple and areola remain connected to the underlying breast tissue, ensuring optimal blood supply. Additionally, the milk ducts remain intact, allowing for the possibility of breastfeeding in the future, an important advantage for younger patients. In cases of larger breasts, the areola is often enlarged. This is usually reduced during the procedure to a diameter of approximately 4.5 cm.

After removing the excess breast tissue, a new breast shape is created using the remaining tissue. The skin is then carefully closed in multiple layers. Depending on the extent of the reduction, the resulting scars will typically be located around the new areola and vertically down to the breast fold. For larger reductions, a short additional scar may appear in the fold itself. The final quality of the scars depends greatly on the precision of the surgical closure. While no one wants scars, it’s reassuring to know that after a maturation period of about one year, they are barely noticeable from a one-meter distance.

The procedure takes approximately two hours. Afterwards, you will stay in the recovery room for a few hours to monitor vital signs and receive appropriate pain management. In some cases, drains are placed at the end of the operation to remove excess wound fluid. These are removed before you leave E:MC².

Aftercare following a breast reduction is generally easy. Pain is usually minimal and can be effectively managed with Paracetamol if needed. Most normal daily activities, including showering, can be resumed the day after the procedure. However, intensive physical activities such as jogging or gym workouts are discouraged for the first six weeks so that the scars have enough time to heal properly.

Two follow-up appointments are scheduled: the first one, a week after the procedure, for a bandage check; and the second, two weeks post-op, for suture removal. For optimal scar care, supportive tape will be applied for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by the use of a silicone gel or silicone sheet.

Complications following a breast reduction are extremely rare when the patient is properly selected and the correct indication is applied. General surgical complications such as bleeding and infection can occur, but with appropriate precautions, they are well manageable. Specific complications related to breast reduction include circulation problems of the areola, which may lead to partial loss of the areola. However, this too is exceptionally rare when proper patient selection and surgical techniques are used.

Minor asymmetries may occasionally occur and are considered normal. Significant asymmetry in size or shape, however, is not acceptable and can be corrected.

There will be temporary numbness in the area of the areola, which gradually recovers but may take 4 to 5 months. This is not considered a true complication, as it occurs in nearly all patients.

Surgical fee starting from €4250

Price excludes VAT, anesthesia, operating room fees, materials, staff, and hospital stay